Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi (SHP)

New Delhi, Jul 19: On Thursday, the Centre clarified that the state is responsible for dealing with cases related to child abuse and cybercrime. The reason for the same being, 'police' and 'public order' come under state.

Smriti Irani, minisiter of women and child development stated in a written message in Rajya Sabha that, 'States/UTs are primarily responsible for prevention, detection, investigation and prosecution of crimes including crimes related to exploitation of children through their law enforcement machinery. The law enforcement agencies take legal action as per provisions of law against persons involved in digital sexual exploitation/abuse of children."

She further said, "Sections 354A and 354D of Indian Penal Code provide punishment for cyberbullying and cyberstalking against women." She pointed out that there are certain provisions to deal with cybercrimes, where the states can fight them with the help of Information Technology (IT) Act. The IT Act deals with protection against publishing, browsing or transmitting child pornography in an electronic mode.

Irani, listed a web portal which has been initiated by the government, www.cybercrime.gov.in, she also mentioned the social media handle @CyberDost which can be used to reach out to the respective authorities